(Press-Register/Victor Calhoun)Hats weren't mandatory under former Mobile Police Chief Phillip Garrett, who retired in September, but they have been since Lester Hargrove took over as interim chief. MOBILE, Ala. -- After Phillip Garrett retired as police chief in September, many Mobile officers probably found themselves digging through their closets and car trunks for their hats.

Hats weren't mandatory under Garrett, but they have been since Lester Hargrove took over as interim chief.

Officers are now to wear their hats whenever they are outside dealing with the public, Hargrove said in an interview with the Press-Register.

Hargrove said hats are important for two reasons: professionalism and visibility.

"The hat is part of the uniform," he said, describing it as an easily recognizable symbol of authority.

"That hat, it towers," he said.

"A person down the street can still see that hat. We want our people to be identified, so there won't be any reason for confusion."

Hats aside, Hargrove said he hasn't made any policy changes for the police force. "The Police Department was in good shape when the chief retired," he said.

The hat requirement may lend the department a polished look, but it's generally not supported by field officers, said Donald Scott, state and Mobile chapter president of the Alabama Police Benevolent Association.

Whether running after a robber or directing traffic on a warm afternoon, officers find the hat can be inconvenient and even a hindrance.

Indeed, until this year, Hargrove carried a .357 Magnum revolver, not the standard Glock automatic, as his service pistol.

City Councilman Fred Richardson, chairman of the council's public safety committee, said he has received no complaints from officers about the hats. "I assume it's going well," he said. "It's certainly changed the appearance. It looks more professional."

Hargrove said he will be among those seeking the position as police chief when the mayor's office officially begins the hiring process.

Mayor Sam Jones has said that he plans to hire someone from within the department.